ALBANY, NY--(Marketwire - Oct 24, 2011) - Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences will offer a new bachelor's degree program in chemistry beginning in fall 2012. The program is ideal for students with interests in both health and physical science.
All students in the Chemistry program at ACPHS will complete coursework that spans the five traditional areas of chemistry: analytical, organic, physical, inorganic, and biochemistry. Students may choose to focus their studies in the area of medicinal chemistry, where they will learn how to apply chemical concepts to the design, synthesis, and development of drugs. It is this ability to specialize in medicinal chemistry combined with the health oriented environment at the College that distinguishes the ACPHS chemistry program from those of most other institutions.
The Bureau of Labor (BLS) statistics reports that there are currently 84,000 chemists employed in the workforce with a significant number working in either scientific research/development or pharmaceutical/medicine manufacturing. According to the BLS, median annual wages of chemists as of 2008 were $66,230.
Students graduating from the ACPHS chemistry program will compete favorably for these positions with students from more traditional biology and chemistry programs because (1) their area of study is directly relevant to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries and (2) the interdisciplinary nature of the training that is part of this program.
For those not seeking employment in the pharmaceutical industry, additional options may include attending graduate school in the biological, chemical or pharmaceutical sciences; pursuing a professional program in an allied health field (e.g., medical school, pharmacy school, et al); or entering a teacher preparation program.
"Chemistry plays an integral role in the field of pharmacy, and so the expertise and resources required to offer this program have existed at the College for many years. As a result, we are well positioned to offer a program of exceptional quality that aligns with the College's longstanding commitment to the advancement of health care," said David Clarke, Ph.D., the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, which will oversee the program.
In addition to its Doctor of Pharmacy program, ACPHS now offers four bachelor's programs and six graduate programs.
About Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Founded in 1881, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is a private, independent institution committed to the advancement of health. The College possesses all of the qualities for an outstanding education, including diverse academic programs, modern facilities, and distinguished faculty. In addition to its doctor of pharmacy program, ACPHS offers four bachelor's programs and six graduate programs in the health sciences. The College's main campus is located in Albany, New York; its satellite campus is in Colchester, Vermont. For more information, please visit www.acphs.edu.
Contact Information:
Gil Chorbajian
518-694-7394